Glyceryl Behenate/Eicosadioate

What is Glyceryl Behenate/Eicosadioate?

Glyceryl Behenate/Eicosadioate is a diester derived from glycerol, behenic acid—a long-chain saturated fatty acid typically from vegetable origins—and eicosadioic acid, a straight-chain dicarboxylic acid. This lipid falls into the category of fatty acid esters widely employed in skincare formulations like moisturizers, lotions, cleansers, and lip products. It functions primarily through its amphiphilic structure, with hydrophobic tails interacting with oils and hydrophilic head aiding water compatibility. As an emollient, it deposits a thin film on the skin to soften rough textures and enhance slip during application. In its emulsifying role, it bridges oil and water phases to form stable, homogeneous mixtures, preventing separation in creams. Surfactant capabilities allow it to reduce surface tension, facilitating dirt removal and product spreading without disrupting the skin's moisture balance.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Emollient
Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Softens skin surface and improves texture by mimicking natural lipids.

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures for smooth, consistent product feel.

Enables mild cleansing by lowering surface tension gently.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Dry skin types needing surface softening and hydration support.
People with rare allergies to fatty acid esters.
Users of creams and lotions for better emulsion stability.
Those preferring only plant-derived ingredients.
Acne-prone individuals due to non-comedogenic profile.
Individuals experiencing reactions to similar glyceryl compounds.

Safety Notes

  • Low comedogenic potential, suitable for pore-friendly routines.
  • Minimal hazard profile in cosmetic applications.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glyceryl Behenate/Eicosadioate

What does Glyceryl Behenate/Eicosadioate do in products?

Acts as emollient to soften skin, emulsifier for stability, and surfactant for cleansing.

Is it suitable for all skin types?

Yes, with low comedogenic rating and gentle profile for broad use.

How does it benefit formulations?

Improves texture, spreadability, and phase compatibility in creams and cleansers.